The sizable camera sensor provides vivid, high-definition image quality even in low-light environments.
For decades USB camera solutions fulfilled a utilitarian purpose with approachable price points and mediocre performance.
The Pro iteration of theElgato Facecamimproves upon every element of its predecessor.
Elgato Facecam Pro’s large form factor
Though, these enhancements come with a substantial price increase.
Thankfully, in essentially every way, the Elgato Facecam Pro is the best USB webcam Ive ever used.
Disclaimer:This review was made possible thanks to a review unit provided by Elgato.
The company did not see the contents of this review before publishing.
Unfortunately, this gear is notably pricey compared to most 4K USB webcams.
The Elgato Facecam Pro is currentlyavailable through Elgatofor a whopping$300.
Elgato Facecam Pro’s large form factor
As stated, this exorbitant asking price is arguably earned through convincingly premium internal components and respectable camera specs.
Elgato clearly intended to construct a webcam that stands toe-to-toe with entry-level DSLRs that doesnt completely break the bank.
Historically, even the most capable webcams struggle in low-light environments.
Elgato Facecam Pro top down
Small sensors and digital compression generate tell-tale noise that degrades the overall picture.
Thanks to its Sony STARVIS CMOS sensor, the Elgato Facecam Pro performs infinitely better in this department.
This stellar webcam captured greater detail in darker areas with less pesky noise.
Elgato Facecam Pro mounted on monitor
This allowed for greater expression in my videos without concerns about how specific movements would degrade the picture quality.
One of the highest compliments I can give this equipment is that it genuinely takes decent photos.
With other webcams, I would use a different (and significantly better) camera to snap thumbnail pictures.
Unedited close-range picture captured with the Elgato Facecam Pro
The focus flexibility provided with this USB webcam also empowers competent close-range capture.
If resolution is your priority, the Elgato Facecam Pro renders sharp video recordings with fairly natural colors.
If 1080p is acceptable for your use case, the uncompressed NV12 mode displays evidently elevated color accuracy.
Elgato Facecam Pro rear view
The Elgato Camera Hub app allows you to alter nearly every key element of the Elgato Facecam Pro.
Automatic toggles are available for these prefs, but as I mentioned, they arent worth using.
Exposure, zoom, and focus were the three sliders I was most impressed by.
Elgato Facecam Pro Camera Hub App
I could quickly center myself, create engaging camera angles, and narrowly pinpoint the cameras focus.
After downloading a small plugin, further customization options can be enabled for the Elgato Camera Hub app.
In the Effects panel, you could toggle orientation tweaks like mirror or add AI backgrounds to your video.
Elgato Facecam Pro vs Logitech Brio 4K size
The AI backgrounds are similar to what youd find in Zoom or other video-conferencing apps.
Still, the included blur effect can be subtle and believable.
There is one glaring feature the Elgato Facecam Pro doesnt deliver; a microphone.
Elgato Facecam Pro vs Logitech Brio 4K picture
Just see to it its USB 3.0 or better.
There is one glaring feature the Elgato Facecam Pro doesnt deliver; a microphone.
TheLogitech Brio 4Khas been my DeFacto webcam for years.
Elgato Facecam Pro with mount
Ive recorded dozens of videos and podcasts with this tried-and-true 4K camera.
That said, its currently$123 on Amazon, which is wildly less than I paid.
A more recent contender that supplies sharp 4K videos is theLumina AI Webcamfor $200.
This smart rig incorporates proprietary software to enhance recordings.
Unfortunately, the Lumina AI Webcam doesnt feature 60fps recording.
It only provides 4K30 and 1080p40.
you’re free to check out more options in ourbest webcam guide.
Elgato Facecam Pro: Should you buy?
You should buy this if…
You should not buy this if…
The Pro moniker is abused in the world of hardware marketing.
That is not the case with the Elgato Facecam Pro.
This enormous USB webcam justifies its stature and price point with incredible overall performance.
Ive never seen sharper images and better user control in a conventional webcam.
Im thrilled about the possibilities this gadget unlocks for future video projects.
Robust resolution options with 60fps support make this a fantastic pick for rookie and professional content creators alike.
Its exciting to see companies evolve whats possible with USB webcams without sacrificing picture quality.
The Elgato Facecam Pro isn’t cheap, but it can seriously elevate your USB webcam recording capabilities.
